AC Tripping the Breaker: Why It Happens and What to Do

When your AC trips the breaker, resetting it might work temporarily, but the underlying problem needs attention.

Why Breakers Trip

Breakers protect wiring from overheating due to excessive current. When an AC draws too much power, the breaker does its job.

Common Causes

Dirty Condenser Coils When the outdoor coils are coated with dirt, the system works harder and draws more power.

Hard Starting Compressor An aging compressor may struggle to start, drawing excessive current during startup.

Failing Capacitor The capacitor helps the compressor start. A failing one causes hard starts and high current draw.

Low Refrigerant Low refrigerant makes the compressor work harder, increasing electrical demand.

Electrical Problems - Loose connections creating resistance - Damaged wiring - Failing compressor windings

Undersized Circuit Sometimes the circuit was never properly sized for the AC load.

Why You Shouldn't Just Reset and Ignore

• Fire hazard from overheated wiring
• Compressor damage from repeated hard starts
• Underlying problem will worsen
• Higher repair costs later

What to Do

Immediate Steps 1. Let the system rest for 30 minutes before resetting 2. Check if the air filter is clean 3. Clear any debris from the outdoor unit

If It Trips Again Stop resetting and call for service. Repeated tripping indicates a problem that won't fix itself.

Professional Diagnosis A technician can: - Measure electrical draw - Test capacitors and compressor - Check refrigerant levels - Identify wiring issues